Simon Cowell sends young guitarist through to Britain's Got Talent final
Britain's Got Talent judge Simon Cowell has sent 11-year-old guitarist Olly Pearson through to the show's final via the golden buzzer.
Cowell reached for the buzzer after Pearson performed a medley of songs including AC/DC's Thunderstruck, Guns N' Roses' Sweet Child O' Mine, and Bon Jovi's Livin' on a Prayer, with the guitarist saying being sent to the final of the ITV show was the "coolest thing in my life".
Speaking after sending Pearson through on Saturday's live semi-final, Cowell said: "He was bloody brilliant, seriously, and he's so small and talented and carries magic.
"I probably went a little bit early, but I was so excited, and it was just so brilliant. You're so talented, really."
Take it all in, Olly! You're going to the #BGT FINAL! #BritainsGotTalent pic.twitter.com/7coNnM20ja
— BGT (@BGT) May 3, 2025
Pearson previously received the golden buzzer from judge Amanda Holden during the audition stage.
The golden buzzer is being used at the semi-final stage for the first time in the show's history, with each judge being given the opportunity to send an act directly to the final.
The public vote saw singer Stacey Leadbeatter join the young rocker in the final.
Leadbeatter sang Anyone by Demi Lovato, with judge Holden remarking: "I thought you nailed that. I just don't know where you find the courage.
"I love your whole story. Your little girl, your mum, they were so proud of you that day (of her audition).
"I'm sure they are again tonight, because that audition was another level, and you look gorgeous."
After being sent through, Leadbeatter said: "I can't even explain it. Thank you so much. Thank you.
"Oh, my God. Thank you so much for believing in me. It means everything to me. This is my dream."
You did it, Stace! 🤩
#BGT pic.twitter.com/rhaXDJT2Ye
— BGT (@BGT) May 3, 2025
Britain's Got Talent 's 18th season began earlier this year, with the show seeing a number of different styles of performers compete for a chance to star in the Royal Variety Performance and win a cash prize.
The show will return to Virgin Media One and ITV next Saturday at 7pm.
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